10 Must-See Coastal Towns on the Pacific Coast Highway

Pratidin Bureau

Mendocino

This charming town is located north of San Francisco and is known for its Victorian-era architecture, art galleries, and beautiful beaches.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Fort Bragg

Home to the iconic Glass Beach, where the shoreline is adorned with colorful, sea-smoothed glass pebbles, Fort Bragg is a must-see for any beachcomber.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Stinson Beach

A short drive north of San Francisco, Stinson Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

San Francisco

No California coastal road trip would be complete without a stop in San Francisco. 

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Half Moon Bay

This charming coastal town is known for its beautiful beaches, harbor, and Mavericks, a world-famous big wave surfing spot.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Santa Cruz

A popular beach destination, Santa Cruz is home to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic amusement park, and Mystery Spot, a gravitational anomaly.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Monterey & Carmel-by-the-Sea

These two towns are located south of Santa Cruz and offer a variety of attractions, from world-class golf courses and art galleries to stunning natural beauty.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Big Sur

This rugged stretch of coastline is known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and redwood forests. 

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

San Simeon

Home to Hearst Castle, a palatial estate perched on a cliff overlooking the ocean, San Simeon is a popular stop for history buffs and architecture lovers.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google

Pismo Beach

A classic California beach town, Pismo Beach is known for its wide, sandy beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.

Pacific Coast Highway | Image: Google